The Korea Institute of Energy Research (KIER) and Flexell Space have announced that they signed a technology transfer agreement for ultra-light flexible CIGS (copper, indium, gallium, selenium) solar cell process technology and know-how for implementing next-generation space-use double-junction (tandem) solar cells (CIGS/perovskite dual-junction solar cells).
Flexell Space, a space solar cell company, will receive the ultra-light and flexible CIGS solar cell technology from Korea Institute of Energy Research and jointly develop ultra-light thin-film dual-junction solar cells optimized for the lifespan and performance of small satellites, and pursue market development to replace existing III-V-based space solar cells. The total project funding is 5.5 billion won (almost US$4 million).
CIGS solar cells are resistant to thermal shock and radiation, making them suitable for stable operation even in extreme environments such as space. Furthermore, they can be manufactured on ultra-lightweight flexible substrates, making them suitable for integration into satellites with significant weight and volume constraints. Through a market-entry project, KIER has developed world-class, high-performance, ultra-lightweight flexible CIGS solar cells (efficiency of 21.39%) for extreme environments and ultra-lightweight, flexible CIGS/perovskite dual-junction solar cells (efficiency of 23.64%).
The solar cells developed by the two organizations will be tested in an actual space environment in conjunction with the fourth launch of Nuriho, scheduled for November of this year. The jointly developed solar cells will be attached to the CubeSat "INHARoSAT" (built by Inha University) aboard Nuriho 4, to verify its reliability and gain experience conducting space missions.
Lee Chang-geun, president of the Korea Institute of Energy Research, said: “Ultra-light and flexible thin-film solar cells for space are a key component technology that will respond to the new space era and support Korea’s space security,” adding, “This collaboration will lay an important foundation for pioneering the next-generation space solar cell market.”
“Flexell Space will provide innovative solutions to the rapidly growing space solar cell market through next-generation high-performance thin-film multi-junction solar cells, and secure global competitiveness through continuous improvement of performance and productivity in preparation for future mass production,” said Noh Shin-young, CEO of Flexell Space.
